Hemming Calculator

Hemming involves folding fabric under to create a clean finished edge. The hem allowance is the extra fabric below the desired finished length.

Fabric to Cut Off = Current Length − Desired Length − Hem Allowance

Hem Allowance = Fold-under + Turn-under

Unit conversions:

• 1 inch = 2.54 cm
• 1 cm = 0.3937 inches

Standard hem allowances by garment type:

• Pants/Trousers: 1.5" (3.8 cm) — double fold
• Jeans: 1" (2.5 cm) — single fold with topstitch
• Skirts: 1.5–2" (3.8–5 cm)
• Dresses: 1.5–2" (3.8–5 cm)
• T-shirts: 1" (2.5 cm) — double fold
• Curtains: 3–4" (7.6–10 cm) — double fold for weight

Hem types:

• Single fold: Fold once, stitch. For thick or non-fraying fabrics.
• Double fold: Fold edge in, fold again, stitch. Clean finish, prevents fraying.
• Blind hem: Invisible from the outside. Best for dress pants and formal wear.
• Rolled hem: Very narrow, used on lightweight fabrics.

Tip: Always press the hem with an iron before stitching for a crisp, professional finish.